My mind had been wrestling with worry and exhaustion, but at that moment, gratitude won.

And gratitude is the orchard where the fruits of the Spirit are grown.

"Love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control are all cultivated in the thankful soul," I felt that soul deep God voice whisper, "And this is how you will make it through-- by giving thanks continually."

My heart has been reminded and I will continually count my blessings...

11.17.2012

If there's anything that can be said after now having five children, it's this:

I know how fast time flies.

It feels like just yesterday I held my first baby in my arms, nursed twins through sleepless nights, and rocked a squirming Legend.

They grow in a blink, their tiny, cuddly bodies grow tall and heavy in my arms.

The best advice I ever received as a new mother was to cherish every single minute--especially the sleepless nights.

They won't last forever (even though it feels like it's been seven years since I've had a good night's rest).

Those twelve, two, and four a.m. mommy and baby appointments are once in a lifetime chances to hold my baby close, nourish that tiny body with my own love and warmth and pray the kinds of prayers only mothers up all night can pray.

This is meant to be taken slowly.

And I'm not rushing anything.

Time moves too quickly as it is.

As chaotic as life can get with five children, I'm learning not to rush.

To live in the moment and to love in the moment.

That's been my prayer of late.

Story Grace.

Ah, she's brought sweet grace to our home already.

Grace that I'm learning to take hold of with both hands and cling to like the life saver it is.

"And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work." 2 Corinthians 9:8